"Come on, let's go inside," I suggested.
"But the bags –"
"I'll get them."
We walked inside, and when I turned on the lights, she had a huge smile on her face.
"Wow, this is beautiful," she said, walking through the small space. She turned around and looked at me. "I'm sure your mom decorated Jason's place, too."
I smiled. "How did you guess?"
She shrugged, went to the bed and sat down. I sat beside her.
"Are you sure you want to move on from Dwight? He is your husband."
She turned to me. "It's going to hurt for a while that our marriage didn't last, but I think it's for the best. We were hurting each other more than helping. He thought I would always be the one to save the day, whether it was with the rent or getting another car or whatever. I was tired of always doing everything while he did nothing to help the situation. Maybe getting a divorce will make him see that he needs to change his ways so he won't make the same mistakes with someone else."
"That was well said."
"Thanks. Besides, my feelings for him aren't as strong as they used to be. They're with someone else now."
I took her hand, and she smiled. "Who is that?"
"It's you, silly."
"I know; I just wanted you to say it."
She laughed and lay her head on my shoulder. She took a deep breath, while I caressed her arm.
"Did you ever expect to be with someone who's married? Or now separated?" she asked.
"No, but you can't help who you love."
She looked up with raised eyebrows. "What?"
"I didn't want to say anything because of everything that's happening, but I'm falling in love with you, Asia. Hell, I think I already fell."
"Wow, really?"
"Asia, I think I fell for you the moment I saw you at the coffeehouse. I didn't want to admit it then, but as I spent more time with you, my feelings grew. I know you don't have the same feelings for me right now, but I just wanted to tell you how I feel."
She smiled. "Bryon, I really do care about you, and I think I've fallen for you so hard. I tried to deny it, but I can't any more."
"So, do you love me?"
"What does this tell you?" she asked then leaned over and kissed me.
"Even though that was good, that's still not an answer," I joked.
"Fine; I love you, Bryon," she declared with a huge grin.
I embraced her and kissed those beautiful lips. We lay on the bed, celebrating our mutual feelings
***
It was the next day, and I was leaving the flat to meet with Jason and Commissioner Franklin. Franklin wanted to know if any progress had been made with the Foster case. I didn't want to meet with him because I didn't have any new leads. I'd been too consumed with Asia to even care about the case, which wasn't good for me or for Jason.
I pulled up to the diner near Rosenberg and got out of the car. I walked inside and saw the two seated in a corner booth, already deep in discussion. I sat down and looked at them.
"You started without me?"
Commissioner Franklin cut his eyes at me before pulling out the menu from between the ketchup and mustard bottles. "So, you did the complete opposite of what I asked you to do."
I raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about?"
"I'm talking about getting involved with the Alexander girl. I told you to only get information from her, not be with her."
I looked at Jason, who shrugged.
"Oh, your brother can't help you this time. In fact, he didn't have to tell me anything. The proof is right here," he snarled. He dropped a manila envelope on the table, and I quickly grabbed it. I opened it and saw pictures of Asia me from our various outings. One was even from the hotel room in Galveston.
I threw the photos across the table; I was pissed that the Commissioner had me followed.
"What the hell is this?! You had me followed?"
"Calm down, B," Jason told me.
"I had to since I knew you wouldn't stay away from her. I was all for you getting information from her, but I didn't think you'd get involved with her."
"You had no right to do this!"
"Are you denying that you're sleeping with her?"
I shoved the photos off of the table and stood up. "Just take me off of the case then. Asia has nothing to do with her husband or her cousin-in-law! She's has a lot going on, and this is the one thing she wouldn't be worried about. In fact, she's getting a divorce, so you're looking at the wrong person to get info from."
"Maybe I should have taken you off of this case a long time ago. As of now, you're on suspension until further notice. I need you to turn in your badge and gun at the station."
I nodded. "That's fine. I really hope you find what you're looking for, Commissioner Franklin; I'm just glad it's not at my expense any more."
I turned around and went to the door. I was heading to my car when I heard Jason yelling my name.
"Dude, wait!"
I turned around; when he caught up to me, I shoved him. "You didn't know he was tailing me?"
"I swear I didn't. I'm just as shocked as you are, but you should have known he would. He was constantly giving you warnings, so you should have known he would do something dramatic."
"This is bullshit and you know it."
"Why are you so upset about this? You wanted out, so you got your wish. Be glad that you finally are."
I shook my head. "That's not why I'm upset. Now that Commissioner Franklin knows about this, he could try to go after Asia himself. He probably figured since I couldn't get the information out of her, someone else would."
"Damn, I didn't think about that. So what are you going to do?"
I sighed and looked ahead. "I have to keep Asia from finding out."
***
Now that I had more free time on my hands, I was able to focus more on the agency. I did miss being a detective to a certain extent, especially when I turned in my gun and badge. Those items symbolized my commitment to improving our communities, which was something my father had been proud of doing. Now, I didn't have anything to contribute to my father's legacy. He was probably turning over in his grave for the messed up job I'd done.
It was three days after the incident, and I was now at the agency, going over the itinerary for the conference Asia and I were attending. Since I wanted to do more for the company, I figured going to Austin and improving our business would be beneficial. Besides, it would also be a mini getaway for Asia and me. Since I wasn't on the force and she'd admitted everything to Dwight, we didn't have to hide our relationship any more. And that was a big deal to me.
The door opened, and Asia walked in with a huge bag. I looked at her curiously.
"Hey, baby," I greeted, stepping to her and giving her a passionate kiss. She was so caught off guard that she almost dropped the bag.
"Hey to you, too. I guess I need to bring breakfast more often," She teased with a smile.
"I don't need that unless you're the breakfast. I could actually go for a taste right now," I said, leaning her against the conference table.
"As tempting as that sounds, I don't think we need to do that here again. You wouldn't want Jason to have to buy another table, would you?"
I laughed. "You're right about that. He's still pissed that he had to buy a new one."
She smiled as she set out two plastic containers. Then, she walked over to me, and I embraced her.
"So, what were you working on before I arrived?"
"I was getting everything together for the conference in Austin. I really think this will be great for us and this company."
"I'm sure it will. I can't wait to go."
I pecked her on the lips, then she pulled away and went to the table. We sat down and opened the containers, and I noticed Asia stopped to look at me. I wondered what was wrong.
"Are you okay? It seems that for the past three days, something's been a little off with you. If something's wrong, you can
always talk to me."
I put down my fork and took her hand in mine. "Everything is cool, A. Just have a ton of things to do here, that's all."
"If that's the case, you can always put me to work."
"You're doing enough already."
"I don't mind, Bryon."
I nodded. "Okay; if it gets too bad, I'll let you know."
"Okay."
"Now, about your dad's party, that's coming up this weekend."
"Don't remind me."
"Come on, it'll be fun. Besides, I'll be there to lighten the mood," I reminded her. I pulled her over to me so she could sit on my lap. She straddled me, making my dick hard.
"I'll take your word for it."
"I don't think Jason would want us doing this either," I cautioned.
Asia smiled. "What he doesn't know won't hurt him, right?"
I lifted up her dress so I could feel her ass. She moaned and was about to unbuckle my pants when I pulled her up and carried her to the back room, eager to have my way with her.
Asia
Today was the day I'd been kind of regretting: my dad's birthday party. I really didn't want to go because I knew people would be asking questions about Dwight and Bryon. Although Bryon was already prepared to meet everyone, I wasn't. I was terrified.
He glanced at me while putting on his shirt. "Baby, everything will be fine. If it'll make you feel any better, why don't you call and give your dad a heads up?"
"I would, but he's probably busy getting everything together. I just don't want to cause a scene."
"Why would you? You're not doing anything wrong. Dwight was the one who messed up, not you."
I nodded. "You're right; I shouldn't feel guilty."
"No, you shouldn't. Now, relax and get ready. Or do I need to help you relax?" he asked, kissing my neck. I giggled as he touched my stomach, slightly caressing it.
"I really think you should stop right now."
"And if I don't?" he teased and lightly kissed the outer tip of my ear, making me close my eyes.
"Bryon."
"I think you're relaxed now," he whispered and walked away. I turned to look at him, and he
gave me a sexy smile before grabbing his shoes.
"Damn tease," I muttered.
He laughed and sat on the bed. "You know if we start, we won't leave this bedroom."
I smiled. "You're right. Despite me being a nervous wreck, I am glad that you're coming with
me."
"I wouldn't be anywhere else."
I kissed him then went to the mirror. He walked up behind me and wrapped his hands
around my waist. I leaned my head back, and he held me tightly.
"I love you so much."
"I love you, too," I replied with a smile.
I turned around and hugged him, realizing that I really did love him. I just hoped that what we
had between us wouldn't end in heartache like my relationship with Dwight. I knew I shouldn't
be thinking that way, but after what had happened, I couldn't help it.
***
Once we were ready, we headed to my dad's. He held my hand the entire ride. He squeezed my
hand before we got out of the car and went to the door. I rang the doorbell, and my dad opened it
immediately and gave me a hug.
"I'm glad you could make it," he greeted, which made me smile. I wasn't sure why he'd say
that though since I'd told him I'd be there.
"You knew I wouldn't miss this, Dad. Happy birthday!" I said. We went inside, and I handed
him a small gift-wrapped box. He looked at it then at me, surprised since he figured I didn't
have a job to buy anything. I mentioned that while I'd found a job, Bryon had bought the gift, an
Apple® watch.
"Thank you."
"You're welcome."
He looked at Bryon, wondering who he was. I became nervous again.
"And who are you?" he asked.
"I'm Bryon, sir. I'm Asia's boss and friend."
I looked at him, wondering why he'd said that, but once I saw the look in his eyes, I understood. It probably wasn't the best idea to announce that we were in a relationship when my dad didn't even know my marriage was ending. I didn't want him to be blindsided by everything that had happened.
"Hi, Bryon; it's nice to meet you."
"Likewise."
"Asia, where is Dwight?"
Before I could say anything, the doorbell rang, and my stepmom, Cassandra, opened the door. I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me, because I could have sworn I saw Dwight walking into the house. I started to panic, and from the look on my dad's face, he knew something was up.
"Hey, Paul, great to see you again," Dwight greeted as he gave my dad a hug. He hugged me, which made Bryon furious.
"How are you?" Dwight asked.
"I'm fine. What are you doing here?"
"Why wouldn't he be here? He is your husband," Cassandra scoffed and walked off.
I looked from Dwight to Bryon until my dad cleared his throat. I turned to him, and he motioned for me to come with him. I looked between the two again; considering what happened the last time they were together, I didn't want to leave those two alone. But when I saw the look on my dad's face, I knew I had no choice but to go with him.
"I'll be back," I told them and followed my dad to his bedroom. After we walked in, he closed the door, and I sat in the armchair. My dad looked at me and sighed.
"What's really going on, Asia? Is Bryon really just your boss?"
"It's complicated, Dad."
"Well, explain the situation to me, A. I know you and Dwight have been having problems, so have you been leaning on Bryon? What is it?"
I looked down at the hardwood floor then looked up at him. "Dwight and I are separated right now. He's been cheating on me for six months."
"What?! And you're just now telling me this?!"
"I just found out myself. I saw a video of him having sex with his co-worker dated six months ago. He admitted everything to me."
My dad shook his head and kneeled beside me. "After everything he has put you through, he does this? He wouldn't have stepped foot in this house if I had known this."
"I'm sorry, Dad. I was just too embarrassed to tell you."
"Why? What happened isn't your fault."
"According to him, it is since I distanced myself from him."
"Asia, you have done so much for him. I've told you countless times to re-evaluate your marriage to him. I can understand if he was making an effort, but he wasn't, and that's what made me so upset with him. He couldn't do what you needed or even what he needed. So how does Bryon fit into all this?"
"I met him at the coffeehouse near the mall. We hung out for a while, and he offered me a job working at his marketing agency. He has been a really great friend. After I found out about Dwight, we sort of took our relationship further."
"Oh, Asia."
"What?! Bryon has treated me with the utmost respect. He has been there for me more in the past six months than Dwight has in the past 10 years. He's been so trusting and understanding, and he's just a great person."
"You sure that's not an act?"
"I thought so at first, but no, it's not."
"Asia, I just want you to be careful. You just found out your husband has been unfaithful, and now you're pursuing something with this other guy who's your boss. I really think you need to slow down and figure out what you want in your life."
"I understand your concern, but I can handle it. I really like Bryon, and I really hope our relationship progresses, especially once my divorce with Dwight is finalized."
"You've already filed for divorce?"
"I'm getting there; I just need to find the money to do it. But he already said he won't contest it. He knows he messed up, so he's not standing in my way."
My dad shook his head. "Wow, you have been through a lot in a short amount of time. I'm sure his aunt gave he
r two cents."
"She did, and of course, she kicked me out of the house."
He laughed. "Even though her nephew was the one who messed up. Where are you staying then?"
"At Bryon's brother's flat. He offered to let me stay with him, but I declined."
"You know you could have stayed here."
"I know, but I feel like I've stayed with too many people in the past few years. Right now, I just want to be on my own."
"I completely understand."
"I'm going to be okay, Dad. If I do come across a problem, you know I'll bounce back. I always do."
"I know, A. Just know that no matter how old you are, I'll always be here for you."
"I know, Dad."
"We haven't really had the best relationship, especially after your mom passed."
"Dad, don't do this."
"Just listen, please. I want to apologize for what I've put you through. You are the spitting image of her, and I admit, I couldn't handle it. I see her every time I look at you. I was so consumed with hurt that I distanced myself from you, especially when you needed me the most. For that, I am truly sorry."
I nodded. "That was a tough time for everyone, Dad, so I understand. Let's not dwell on the past. We should just move on and focus on the relationship we have now."
My dad smiled and took my hand. I leaned in and gave him a hug. We pulled apart, but he held onto my hand.
"So you're dating your boss while you're still married."
I laughed. "I wasn't trying to, but it just happened."
"Is he treating you right?"
I smiled. "Yes, he is."
"Now, I would never condone you being with someone while you're still married, but I guess given the circumstances, I can see why you're doing it."
"I tried to not like Bryon, especially since I'm still married, but the more time I spend with him, the more I realize I want to be with him. We are taking things slowly, if that's what you're wondering."
"I was, and I'm glad that you are."
"Come on, you're missing your party," I said and got up.
My dad hugged me again before we walked out of the room. Now that things had cleared up between us, I would probably come and talk to him, because I was sure there'd be another time I'd need to.
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